Airdrie will be celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day today and as part of those very celebrations, there will be special events held at Nose Creek Regional Park this evening from 5:30 P.M. till 8:30 P.M.

"Those attending will experience the heritage, culture and diversity of Indigenous people from across Treaty 7 Territory as well as the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3. The event will include Elder’s blessings and prayers, stories, live music and dance performances. This is a free and family-friendly event that is open to the public and everyone is welcome to attend," stated a press release from the City of Airdrie. 

The celebrations are being held as part of the Circle Connections for Reconciliation Society (CCFRS) efforts to support reconciliation activities within the area.

“Having a day to recognize and honour Indigenous People is so incredibly important. This ceremony represents the nations of Treaty 7 and Métis Region 3 well and working alongside the teams that organized it has been a beautiful representation of the growth happening in the city of Airdrie,” says Amber Kakakaway, White Bear First Nation and Event Manager. “I am not only looking forward to sharing Indigenous and Métis culture, but to also continue my own learning journey alongside the members of the community.”

National Indigenous Peoples Day is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. In cooperation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21, the summer solstice, for National Aboriginal Day, now known as National Indigenous Peoples Day. For generations, many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.

“The Circle Connections for Reconciliation Society, the City of Airdrie and community members have brought this evening together to celebrate the diverse cultures of the First Nations, Metis and Inuit People,” says Adrian Pruden, Métis Nation and co-chair of CCFRS. “All are welcome to come out to the event. It will be a night of dance, songs, music, and teachings from elders, knowledge keepers and performers.”

The June 21 event is made possible through collaborative efforts of Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members, the Circle Connections for Reconciliation Society (CCFRS) and the City of Airdrie.

“Events celebrating Indigenous culture help to create understanding and build connections in the community,” said Mayor Peter Brown. “The City of Airdrie is pleased to support National Indigenous Peoples Day to celebrate First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people in our community.

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